'The queen of all sports' - Ronnie O'Sullivan hails 'incredible' Serena Williams ahead of US Open farewell

Snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan has hailed the «incredible» Serena Williams as «the queen of all sports» ahead of her US Open farewell. Williams announced that she plans to «evolve away» from tennis after the tournament at Flushing Meadows and will have one final tilt at singles glory — a title that she has won six times in her illustrious career. Ad The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion has the opportunity to draw level with Margaret Court for the most titles.

Now ranked at No. 413 in the world, the American will face Montenegro's Danka Kovinic in the Arthur Ashe Stadium in her opening match. US OpenMcEnroe wonders if Williams 'could be tempted' to carry on if she wins US Open2 HOURS AGO Seven-time snooker world champion O'Sullivan, who has been inspired by Williams' career and impact on sport in general, has sent a message to the 40-year-old ahead of her US Open campaign, making it clear how much respect and admiration he has for her.

«Hi Serena, I hope you're well, and yeah, I just want to say a massive congratulations on an unbelievable career,» O'Sullivan said via Eurosport. «Unbelievable in the majors, incredible. I remember you winning your first one at the US Open, and from that day onwards, you just dominated and showed everyone why you are the queen of tennis, and in many ways, the queen of all sports.

»So yeah, I'm a massive fan… brilliant career. I hope you enjoy your retirement with your family, and yeah, just enjoy your life. «Tennis is going to miss you; I'm certainly going to miss watching you play.